On the day that I shot this photo, I was actually looking for rattlesnakes. When I couldn’t find any, I opted for these buzzing danger-butts instead— close enough, right?
The rattlesnake in question is the eastern massasagua, an endangered species in Indiana which has faced habitat loss throughout its range. Out of the 50+ species of rattlesnakes in the Americas, only three fall in the Sistrurus genus: the pygmy rattlesnake, the western massasagua, and the eastern which I sought. All of the others, including the diamondbacks, sidewinder, and timber rattlesnakes, are in the Crotalus genus.
The search still continues. Unlike The Hunt for Bigbeak, I haven’t closed this case. Especially while seeking an imperiled animal, the interaction must be on its terms, not mine. But I’m willing to be patient because there’s always more to see in the meantime.
On this summer day last year when the rattlesnakes once again refused my photoshoot invitation, I spent some time watching various pollinators on wild celery (Angelica archangelica) which from the angle, looked like a firework frozen in the midst of its glory. Ironically, these images required more reassurance to my family than finding the rattlesnake would have— with a bee sting allergy, a snakebite would probably be my better choice, though I’ll happily take neither. Thankfully, good camera lenses and a little common sense keep me far enough from the action to stay safe, which should always be the practice with wildlife regardless. (And yes, I carry an EpiPen.)
This image is one of my fifteen submissions for the National Wildlife Federation’s annual photo contest. Check out my Contest Gallery to see them all, and for the link to vote for your favorite on their site until May 1st!
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